I have hardware (5 screws and plate) in my chin from genioplasty 12 years ago. The hardware has been bothering me ALOT for a while and it has been suggested I remove. Should I use a facial plastic surgeon or an oral maxiofacial surgeon? Is this procedure difficult? I would do the surgery right away but I am really freaked out that I could get a bone infection, is this a real possibility or a rarity? Thanks!
September 19, 2014
Answer: Genioplasty hardware Either a plastic surgeon, or maxillofacial surgeon can perform this surgery for you. Make sure the physician you consult is experienced in the placement and removal of plates and screws (not every board certified surgeon mentioned above is...)The surgery is quite easy providing your hardware is not covered by "grown over" bone and the risk of infection would be extremely rare. The bone has by now healed very well and the bone should not "shift" after removal of the hardware. Try to obtain the operative notes from your genioplasty to document the type of hardware in place. The screw drivers needed are not universal and are system specific. This will help your surgeon be prepared with the proper tools. Good luck.
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September 19, 2014
Answer: Genioplasty hardware Either a plastic surgeon, or maxillofacial surgeon can perform this surgery for you. Make sure the physician you consult is experienced in the placement and removal of plates and screws (not every board certified surgeon mentioned above is...)The surgery is quite easy providing your hardware is not covered by "grown over" bone and the risk of infection would be extremely rare. The bone has by now healed very well and the bone should not "shift" after removal of the hardware. Try to obtain the operative notes from your genioplasty to document the type of hardware in place. The screw drivers needed are not universal and are system specific. This will help your surgeon be prepared with the proper tools. Good luck.
Helpful
